**Veterinary Warning: Recognising the Early Signs of Strokes in Dogs—What Every Pet Owner Should Know**
With an estimated 10.6 million dogs living in homes across the UK, caring for canine health has become a top priority for countless families. These loyal companions rely heavily on their humans, not only for love and daily exercise, but for close attention to potential health problems. Recent data from veterinary professionals suggests that one significant issue, strokes in dogs, may be more widespread than previously believed.
The increasing reach of social media has played a crucial role in highlighting animal health concerns. Videos addressing pet care have surged in popularity, with both veterinary experts and everyday owners sharing their insights. Among these, content tackling the early warning signs of stroke in dogs and cats has been gaining traction, serving as both an educational resource and a call for greater awareness.
Dr Sheena Sanil, a board-certified veterinary neurologist with the South East Veterinary Neurology (SEVN) team, recently featured in one such video, noting, “It turns out that strokes are pretty common in our small animal friends, so it’s important to recognise the signs.” She stresses that, much like in humans, strokes in pets often happen suddenly and without warning, but prompt recognition of symptoms can be crucial.
The symptoms of a stroke in dogs can vary depending on the region of the brain affected. According to Dr Sanil, when the forebrain is involved, pets may begin to walk in circles, experience sudden behavioural shifts, have seizures, display head pressing behaviour, or even suffer from sudden blindness. These alarming changes can be easily mistaken for other health problems, making it all the more important for owners to be well-informed.
If the stroke affects the brainstem or cerebellum, further symptoms may arise, including poor balance, vomiting, abnormal eye movements (nystagmus), weakness on one side, high-stepping movements, head tremors, acute changes in alertness, and persistent spinning or circling. Dr Sanil adds, “Strokes are not generally painful but often cause abrupt and severe onset of symptoms.”
The underlying causes of stroke in dogs typically divide into two main types. An ischaemic stroke—caused when blood flow to an area of the brain is blocked—often occurs in older animals and may be linked to conditions such as hypothyroidism, kidney disease, heart problems, or certain cancers. Haemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, happen when a blood vessel bursts, frequently as a result of clotting disorders, metastatic tumours, or exposure to toxins. Interestingly, Dr Sanil observes that in nearly half of canine stroke cases, no clear underlying factor can be identified.
Breed susceptibility can also play a role, with certain breeds, including greyhounds and miniature schnauzers, appearing more prone to experiencing strokes than others. The reason for this link is not fully understood, but genetic and physiological factors are considered likely contributors.
It remains essential to note that, while social media posts offer a valuable starting point, they cannot replace professional veterinary advice tailored to the individual animal. Pet owners who notice any concerning symptoms are strongly urged to pursue immediate guidance from their own vet, who can offer personalised assessments and recommend appropriate diagnostics or treatments.
For those considering introducing a dog into their home, doing preliminary research is vital. Understanding breed predispositions, potential health concerns, and proper training techniques can help set realistic expectations and ensure a positive outcome for both pet and owner. Animal charities and local shelters often provide helpful advice—and sometimes, rehoming a rescue dog can be more rewarding than buying from a breeder.
In the fast-evolving landscape of pet healthcare, the message from leading veterinary professionals is unambiguous: early detection and action can make a critical difference in the outcome of strokes or any sudden neurological event in pets. By staying vigilant and informed, dog lovers across the UK can continue to provide their four-legged friends with the best possible care.